Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
Craving apple fritters but want to skip the oil and frying mess? These Baked Apple Fritters are the perfect solution! They’re soft, packed with sweet apple chunks, and drizzled with a classic glaze. Baking instead of frying makes these fritters lighter, less greasy, and easier to prepare. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, afternoon snack, or dessert, these fritters will satisfy your cravings while keeping things simple. Let’s get started!

Benefits of Baking Over Frying
Baking fritters offers several advantages:
- Healthier Option: Baking significantly reduces fat and calorie content compared to frying.
- Less Mess: Say goodbye to greasy splatters and the hassle of deep-frying.
- Easier Cleanup: Using a baking sheet makes cleanup quick and easy.
- Same Great Flavor: You’ll still get the sweet, spiced goodness of classic fritters without compromising taste.
Ingredients Overview
Here’s what you’ll need for these baked apple fritters:
For the Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 g)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 g)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk (80 ml)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar (120 g)
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
The Best Apples for Fritters
Choosing the right apples ensures the best flavor and texture for your fritters.
- Sweet and Tart Varieties: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work wonderfully, providing a balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Crisp Texture: Apples that hold their shape when baked are ideal, so they don’t turn mushy.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
3. Fold in the Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the fritters dense.
4. Shape the Fritters
Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, drop mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten the mounds with the back of the spoon to create a fritter shape.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the fritters from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
6. Prepare the Glaze
While the fritters are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
7. Glaze the Fritters
Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters or dip the tops directly into the glaze for a thicker coating. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Key Tips for Perfect Baked Apple Fritters
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the fritters tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Fresh Apples: Freshly diced apples provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-sliced or canned apples.
- Don’t Skip the Glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and a bakery-style finish, so don’t leave it out!
Glaze and Toppings
While the classic glaze is a favorite, you can try these alternatives:
- Cinnamon-Sugar Dusting: Skip the glaze and sprinkle the fritters with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
- Caramel Drizzle: Add a decadent touch with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce.
- Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar gives a clean and elegant look.
Substitutions and Variations
These baked fritters are adaptable to suit different dietary needs and preferences:
- Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or soy milk in the batter and glaze. Replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- Low-Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar in the batter or use a sugar substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fritters warm for the best flavor and texture. They pair perfectly with:
- A cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- A dusting of cinnamon for extra spice.
How to Store Leftovers
- Room Temperature: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate fritters for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature or reheat before serving.
- Reheating: Warm fritters in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Without it, fritters may stick to the baking sheet, making cleanup difficult.
- Undercooking: Ensure fritters are fully baked by checking for a clean toothpick in the center.
- Using the Wrong Apples: Soft apples can turn mushy during baking, so stick to firm varieties.
FAQs
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best way to reheat baked apple fritters?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore their softness and warmth.
Can I freeze baked apple fritters?
Absolutely! Freeze cooled fritters in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before glazing.
Conclusion
These Baked Apple Fritters are a delicious, healthier take on a classic treat. They’re easy to make, full of warm apple-cinnamon flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or saving them for later, these fritters are sure to become a family favorite.
If you try this recipe, let us know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this post with friends and subscribe to our blog for more amazing recipes.
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Baked Apple Fritters Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 fritters
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Craving apple fritters but want to skip the oil and frying mess? These Baked Apple Fritters are a healthier alternative to the classic treat. Packed with sweet apple chunks, warm cinnamon flavors, and drizzled with a sweet glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. Baking makes them lighter, less greasy, and incredibly easy to prepare!
Ingredients
For the Batter:
- 🥣 All-Purpose Flour (2 cups / 250 g)
- 🍬 Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup / 50 g)
- 🥄 Baking Powder (2 teaspoons)
- 🧂 Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- 🌰 Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
- 🌿 Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon)
- 🥚 Eggs (2 large)
- 🥛 Milk (1/3 cup / 80 ml)
- 🧈 Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, melted)
- 🍦 Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- 🍎 Diced Apples (2 cups, about 2 medium apples)
For the Glaze:
- 🍬 Powdered Sugar (1 cup / 120 g)
- 🥛 Milk (2–3 tablespoons)
- 🍦 Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. - Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the Apples:
Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Avoid overmixing to keep the fritters light and fluffy. - Shape the Fritters:
Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, drop mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten the mounds with the back of the spoon. - Bake the Fritters:
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the fritters are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly. - Prepare the Glaze:
While the fritters are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed. - Glaze the Fritters:
Drizzle the glaze over the warm fritters or dip the tops directly into the glaze for a thicker coating. Let the glaze set before serving.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture and flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the fritters tender.
- For a flavor twist, add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice.